An ignition interlock device is a piece of equipment which is used to determine whether alcohol may be present in someone's system when they start or while driving a car.  Having an interlock device in your car requires that you blow into the instrument before starting the vehicle and then periodically while driving.  If alcohol is detected, the car won't initially start and a violation will be reported to the motor vehicle division and the interlock company.  In addition to alcohol, many household items such as mouthwash can result in a positive interlock result. A violation could cause the interlock period to be extended or lead to additional jail time, suspension of your drivers license, etc.

There are a number of companies authorized by the Arizona Motor Vehicle Division to install ignition interlock devices. Costs include an initial installation fee and a monthly fee following each calibration or maintenance procedure performed on the machine.   

Perhaps the most troubling consequence for many people convicted of DUI in Arizona is the requirement to place a certified ignition interlock device in your vehicle.  For people convicted of a "regular" DUI or DUI above .08, an interlock is required for one year.  However, if you are convicted of an Extreme or Super Extreme DUI, the interlock is required for eighteen months.  In either scenario, the time period for this breathalyzer device may be reduced upon application to the motor vehicle division and showing that there have been no positive alcohol tests when asked to blow into the instrument. If you have had your license suspended for one year after refusing to take a blood or breath test following an arrest for DUI, an ignition interlock may be required as well.  In this case, you can reduce the suspension to three months by applying for a restricted license or "work permit."  In order to qualify, you must place an ignition interlock device on your vehicle for the remaining nine months of the suspension period.

In some circumstances a person can use the ignition interlock device to their advantage.  Specifically, in cases involving an Extreme or Super Extreme DUI charge in Arizona, the interlock device can be used to significantly reduce any jail time which might be served.  Courts will require you to place the device on your vehicle for at least one year in exchange for suspending or eliminating a number of days in jail.  To do this, you must attend review hearings throughout the year at the court in which you were prosecuted and show the judge that the interlock device is on your car and there have been no violations.

If you, a family member or loved one has been charged with DUI or any other criminal offense in Arizona you are well advised to immediately contact an experienced DUI or criminal defense lawyer who regularly represents people charged with these types of offenses.  Attorney Raymond Kimble has represented people charged with DUI and other crimes in  Tempe, Mesa, Chandler Phoenix, Scottsdale and other cities throughout Maricopa and Pinal Counties during the last twenty years and has achieved tremendous results for his clients.

 Ray Kimble can be reached directly for a free consultation at (480) 833-8613 or by visiting his website www.raykimblelaw.com